Apple Launches M5 iPad Pro: A Powerhouse for Creative Professionals
CUPERTINO, CA – May 16, 2024 – Apple today released the latest iteration of its iPad Pro, powered by the new M5 chip, delivering a meaningful performance boost aimed at professional users. While the new tablet excels in demanding tasks, its high price point positions it as a potential laptop replacement rather than a simple companion device, according to early reviews.
The M5 chip demonstrably improves performance in resource-intensive applications. Testing with DaVinci Resolve showed smooth 4K footage editing, though full utilization of iPadOS 26’s background rendering capabilities is currently limited – DaVinci Resolve does not yet support the feature, requiring the app to remain open during export. Final Cut Pro, however, does leverage this functionality.
Adobe Lightroom users will also find the M5 iPad Pro capable, even when utilizing AI-powered tools like the erase function. However, reviewers note that the “weaker” iPad Air handles similar tasks adequately, suggesting the Pro’s power is most beneficial for consistently heavy workloads.
Despite its advanced capabilities, the iPad Pro retains a single USB-C port, a limitation for professionals needing simultaneous connectivity for peripherals and charging. A USB hub is required for users who wish to connect a camera for photo editing while also charging the device.
The iPad Pro is best suited for users heavily invested in professional applications like final Cut Pro or AI image generation. While the M4 model remains a viable option for cost-conscious buyers, the M5 offers a noticeable performance increase.
Unlike the more affordable iPad Air,which functions well as a lightweight option to a MacBook,the iPad Pro’s price necessitates a more purposeful decision between a conventional laptop and a tablet form factor. Currently, many reviewers suggest the M5 MacBook Pro remains a more practical choice, but anticipate that the iPad Pro will evolve into a true “touchscreen Mac” as more desktop-class applications become available for iPadOS.
